In this Monday Market Data Report, co-host Mark Lumpkin breaks down the short-term rental numbers for Gulf Shores, a popular Gulf Coast vacation market with far more upside than many investors realize.

This episode walks through how revenue, nightly rates, and occupancy change as you move from 3-bedroom homes to 6+ bedroom properties, and why larger, well-executed homes dominate this market.

Inside the data, you’ll learn:

• What 3-bedroom homes earn at average vs. top-tier performance levels
• Why adding a 4th bedroom increases revenue even with slightly lower occupancy
• How 5-bedroom properties unlock a major jump in annual income
• Why 6+ bedroom homes in Gulf Shores can push $200K–$250K+ in annual revenue
• How higher nightly rates — not just occupancy — drive strong net returns

The numbers reveal a massive gap between average listings and top performers, proving that design, amenities, and bedroom count matter just as much as location in beach markets.

Whether you already own on the Gulf Coast or are underwriting your next STR deal, this episode gives you clear, data-backed insight into what’s possible in Gulf Shores when you do it right.

Have a market you want us to break down next? DM Mark and we’ll bring the data.

AI is changing short-term rental marketing—but not always for the better.

In this episode of the STR Investing Podcast, Taylor sits down with Conrad, founder of BuildUp Bookings, to break down what actually drives bookings in today’s crowded STR market.

They discuss how overused AI messaging can turn guests away, where automation still adds real value, and why authentic communication is becoming a competitive advantage for Airbnb hosts and property managers. Conrad shares practical insights from nearly a decade in STR marketing, helping operators rethink how they attract, convert, and retain guests.

Key topics covered:

• AI vs human messaging in STR marketing
• How to improve bookings without sounding automated
• Guest psychology and conversion fundamentals
• Marketing mistakes hurting Airbnb performance

If you want more bookings without relying on spammy AI tactics, this episode delivers clear, actionable insight.

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Episode Sponsored By:
STR Search

STR Search is the industry leading property finder service. They've helped investors acquire over 325+ profitable STRs across the US. If you'd like the data professionals to help you find your next STR, reach out to STRsearch.com

In this Monday Market Data Report, co-host Mark Lumpkin breaks down the short-term rental numbers for Austin, one of the most talked-about STR markets in the country.

This episode dives deep into how revenue, occupancy, and nightly rates scale as bedroom count increases, and why Austin strongly rewards larger, high-performing properties.

You’ll learn:

• What 3-bedroom properties earn at average vs. top-tier performance levels
• Why adding a 4th bedroom can unlock a major revenue jump—even with slightly lower occupancy
• How 5-bedroom homes outperform smaller properties by tens of thousands per year
• Why 6+ bedroom homes in Austin are producing some of the highest STR revenues we’ve seen nationwide
• How higher nightly rates and strategic occupancy can lead to stronger net returns

The numbers show massive gaps between average listings and top performers—ranging from under $40K per year to well over $300K—making Austin a clear example of how property size and performance drive outcomes.

If you’re investing in Austin, underwriting a deal, or deciding whether expanding your floor plan is worth it, this episode gives you clear, data-backed insights to guide your strategy.

Have a market you want us to cover next? DM Mark and we’ll bring the data.